Plans for the redevelopment of The Old Falcon in St Neots were supported at a meeting of Huntingdonshire District Council’s (HDC) Development Management Committee on Monday 17 February.
The scheme, which was jointly submitted by Whitfield Property Investment Ltd and HDC, will look to breathe new life into the historic Grade II Listed building, which has been vacant for over 20 years.
At the Development Management Committee meeting, support was given for the development, with powers delegated to planning officers. The plans seek to bring the long-vacant building back into active use while preserving its important heritage characteristics. The redevelopment aims to transform the site into a vibrant, mixed-use development, ensuring its long-term sustainability and enhancing the wider town centre. The project includes two commercial units facing Market Square, improving frontage and increasing footfall at the head of the market square, along with 14 new town-centre homes, including the restoration of the Boathouse.
Support follows extensive collaboration between HDC, the site owner, and key stakeholders, including St Neots Town Council. The redevelopment forms part of the wider St Neots town centre investment programme, which includes improvements to the Market Square, High Street, and Priory Centre.
Cllr Sam Wakeford, Executive Councillor for Economy, Regeneration and Housing at Huntingdonshire District Council, said: "This application marks a major milestone for St Neots in bringing this historic building back into use, reflecting the strong will of the community to see it restored. This project will significantly enhance the visual setting of the Market Square and this historic part of the town, making the town centre a more vibrant and attractive destination. Restoring The Old Falcon will not only preserve an important part of the town’s heritage but also support local businesses, increase footfall, and contribute to a thriving local economy for residents and visitors alike."
Dennis Whitfield, director of Whitfield Property Investment Ltd which owns The Old Falcon, said: “The plans for the Old Falcon have my full support, and it is my intention to get the development done as soon as possible. I would like to thank the Council for working with me on this joint application and I believe this development will be part of the answer to bringing life back into the centre of St Neots.”
This redevelopment is part of a broader initiative to enhance St Neots town centre, incorporating upgrades to the Market Square, High Street, bridge, and Priory Centre. The total investment in St Neots High Street amounts to approximately £15 million, sourced from multiple funding streams. This includes £3.7 million from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), formerly the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities (DLUHC). Additional funding has been secured from National Highways (£3.5 million), the Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Combined Authority (£3.1 million), and Huntingdonshire District Council’s Infrastructure Levy (£5.1 million).
View more information about the Market Towns Programme.